18-year-old charged in Yaletown home invasions: VPD

An 18-year-old from Prince George has been charged in connection to two home invasions that occurred in Yaletown last month.

The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) says the suspect allegedly broke into two different residences.

The first incident took place on September 3, when officers were called to a home in the area of Nelson and Richards streets. In that case, a man broke into a townhome, threatening the homeowner with a knife and then fled the scene.

The second incident took place on September 16 at approximately 3:30 am, officers were called to a residence near Pacific Boulevard and Cambie Street in response to a break-in. The suspect had a knife and attempted to rob the victim, who fled to their bathroom and managed to call 9-1-1.

“Understandably, this was very unsettling for residents of the neighbourhood,” said Constable Tania Visintin in an emailed statement.

• See also: 
  • BC Green Party election proposals include four-day work week
  • Vancouver mayor proposes $30M housing purchase for homeless residents
  • Nearly half of BC’s restaurants say they are operating at a loss

“Through some diligent police work and full cooperation from the victims, investigators were able to identify the suspect in a short amount of time.”

According to VPD, Gary David John has been charged with two counts of robbery, two counts of break and enter, two counts of assault, and one count of disguise with intent.

Vancouver residents are reminded to call the police if they see suspicious activity; all criminal activity can be reported through 911.